The Iranian regime is currently attempting to consolidate its power not only through aggression against its neighbors and threats to international peace, but also through the suppression of widespread and internationally recognized peaceful opposition movements. I am not referring only to the People’s Mujahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/ MEK), but also to Kurdish, Baloch, and Arab opposition groups. Iran’s demographic map reflects significant and often distinct ethnic diversity. Leaders of these ethnic groups have strong reservations about the Iranian regime. Some ethnic groups have engaged in armed conflicts with the Basij militia or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Balochistan, Ahwaz, and Kurdish regions.
For decades, some ethnic groups, such as the Kurds, Baloch, and Arabs, have been demanding their right to self-determination. The Arabs in Iran had their own independent state until it was occupied by Iran in 1925 through deception, and its ruler was arrested. Since then, the people of Ahwaz have continued to strive for the liberation of their land. Iran forcibly occupied Balochistan in 1928.
The Baloch people continue to struggle for their right to self-determination and to seek the liberation of their state from Persian rule. For this reason, Baloch and Kurdish groups have formed armed organizations. They are among the communities affected by the unjust geographical divisions imposed after World War I, particularly in the region of Iran. Approximately 50 percent of non-Persian ethnic groups seek independence or autonomy. It is unjust to leave them at the mercy of a fascist regime that hides behind historical grievances from which it derives its legitimacy and through which it seeks to suppress voices demanding liberation and a life of dignity.
The opposition groups, both inside and outside Iran, have gained significant political influence and a strong international reputation. The Iranian opposition has the capacity to challenge this regime and transform Iran into a normal state, capable of coexisting with its neighbors and the international community in a way that promotes peace and spares the global economy from the violent shocks caused by the current regime.
Lies that contradict history cannot form the foundation of a normal state, especially when they are based on nonexistent delusions. Myths are mere entertainment and cannot serve as the foundation of a state project. They cannot withstand the test of reality. If the international community truly wants to rid itself of the terrorism associated with the current Iranian regime, it must support these factions and create the necessary conditions to help them achieve their right to self-determination.
The current historical opportunity, presented by the weakness of the Iranian regime, must be seized. Such an opportunity does not arise every day. The strategic mistakes that enabled Hitler to ignite the flames of World War II must not be repeated. When the international coalition refused to provide assistance to the Iraqi uprising, Saddam Hussein committed genocide against the Kurds and the people of southern Iraq.
